By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The call by the United States Congress for Nigerian farmers to bear arms has sparked sharp reactions across the country. The recommendation, submitted to President Donald Trump, seeks to address persistent killings and farm destruction in rural communities. Farmers, associations, and civil society groups are now debating whether self-defence will curb insecurity, boost food production, and restore confidence in agriculture. While many support the move, others insist that security remains the government’s responsibility and warn against widespread civilian armament.
Self-Defence Not a Complete Solution — Experts Warn
Security and economic experts argue that self-defence alone cannot resolve rural insecurity. They stress that armed groups, weak policing, and poor infrastructure drive the violence.
The Chief Executive Director of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise, Dr. Muda Yusuf, said intelligence gathering should take priority. According to him, technology such as drones can help security agencies strike before attacks occur. He rejected the idea of farmers defending themselves with weapons.
Similarly, Sandra Victor-Gwafan of DeBranch Farmers Ltd in Kaduna described self-defence as inadequate. She urged the Federal Government to strengthen rural security presence and early warning systems. She added that peace and institutional trust remain key to sustainable food production.
Farmers Divided Over Bearing Arms
The debate has split farming communities nationwide.
The Deputy President of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Chief Daniel, backed the proposal. He argued that legally empowering farmers would deter attackers. He maintained that licensed firearms would help farmers protect themselves within the law.
In Edo State, HRH Alhaji Bako E Dogwo also supported the recommendation. He said attackers would think twice if farmers could respond forcefully. Likewise, Philip Ajomuiwe, former South East chairman of the Cassava Producers Association of Nigeria, described the proposal as timely after repeated farm destruction.
However, Zainab Isah Arah of the Small Scale Women Farmers Organisation in Nigeria (SWOFON), Zamfara chapter, urged caution. She noted that Zamfara already struggles with illegal weapons. She warned that expanding access to arms could escalate violence.
Grace Danaan, a ginger farmer and SWOFON member, also opposed the idea. She said women farmers should not carry additional security burdens. Instead, she demanded stronger government protection.
State Police Suggested as Alternative
Some stakeholders propose state policing as a better solution.
Engr Daniel Ijeh, CEO of EA Daniels Farm in Delta State, advocated for decentralised policing. He argued that state governments can respond faster to local threats. According to him, smallholder farmers lack resources to purchase firearms.
Chief Israel Amanze, former Commissioner for Agriculture in Abia State, echoed that view. He warned that allowing farmers to bear arms could effectively extend gun licences nationwide. He urged the Federal Government to implement state police before considering civilian armament.
The Middle Belt Forum, led by Dr. Bitrus Pogu, supported regulated community defence. However, the group also called for structured local and state policing systems to strengthen grassroots security.
Legal Framework and Constitutional Limits
Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution does not grant citizens the right to bear arms. Instead, the Firearms Act Cap F28 LFN 2004 regulates firearm possession. Only licensed individuals may own approved weapons, usually with presidential or Inspector-General approval.
Therefore, any policy change would require strict legislative oversight and regulatory safeguards.
Food Security at the Centre of the Debate
Farmers insist that insecurity directly affects national food supply. Many abandon farms due to attacks. Others lose entire harvests to destruction.
While some believe licensed self-defence may deter isolated attacks, experts argue that long-term food security depends on stability. Improved intelligence, rural infrastructure, and coordinated security strategies remain essential.
Ultimately, stakeholders agree on one point: farmers want to return to their fields without fear. The debate now centres on how best to guarantee that safety.
